Effects of Soybean Meal Substitution on the Growth and Survival of Clarias jaensis (Boulenger, 1909) Juveniles Using Chromolaena odorata Leaves Powder

Aims: The aim was to contribute to the improvement of Clarias jaensis productivity through the evaluation of the effect of the substitution level of soybean meal by Chromolaena odorata leaves powder on the survival rate and growth characteristics of Clarias jaensis juveniles.

Place and Duration of the Study: From April to June 2019 at TAWON (LN: 5°10' - 5°20' and LE: 10°20' - 10°21'). Sudano-Guinean altitude zone of West Cameroon.

Study Design: Two hundred and twenty-five Clarias jaensis juveniles (12.44 ± 0.15g) were divided into five treatments corresponding to 0; 10; 15; 20 and 25% of substitution level of soybean meal by Chromolaena odorata leaves powder.

Methodology: They were fed twice a day (8:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M.) at 5% of ichthyobiomass, total length, live body weight and physicochemical parameters were measured every tree week for 84 days.

Results: At the 15% substitution level of soybean meal, the survival rate was the highest (100%). Mean Final Weight and Mean Daily Weight Gain were significantly (P≤0.05) higher at 15% (45.73 ± 7.45g and 0.56 ± 0.31g/d). Specific Growth Rate and Condition factor K were higher at 25% (1.41 ± 0.68%/d and 1.08 ± 0.22%g/cm3), however, no significant differences were recorded. The cost of feed to produce one kg of C. jaensis was lower at 15% (609.61 Fcfa).

Conclusion: Soybean meal can be substituted by C. odorata leaves powder at 15% in feed for C. jaensis juveniles.